MBA

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at California State University is designed to equip students with comprehensive business knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic thinking necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic global marketplace. The program offers a rigorous curriculum that covers core areas such as finance, marketing, management, operations, and strategic planning, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of business fundamentals. Emphasizing practical application, the MBA curriculum incorporates case studies, team projects, and real-world simulations to foster problem-solving abilities and innovative thinking. Students have the opportunity to customize their learning experience through elective courses aligned with their career interests, including entrepreneurship, technology management, and sustainable business practices.

The program caters to a diverse cohort of students, including working professionals seeking to advance their careers, recent graduates aiming to deepen their business expertise, and executives looking to sharpen their leadership capabilities. Flexible scheduling options, such as evening and online courses, enable students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments. The program’s esteemed faculty bring extensive industry experience and academic expertise, providing mentorship and networking opportunities that are crucial for career development.

California State University’s strong ties to local industries and businesses offer students valuable internships, collaborations, and job placement support. The MBA program also emphasizes ethical decision-making and corporate responsibility, preparing graduates to lead with integrity and a strategic mindset. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to pursue leadership roles across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, technology, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Whether aspiring to start their own business or advance within existing organizations, students emerge from the program ready to make meaningful contributions and drive organizational success in a competitive global economy.

Applicants with a Bachelor's degree in a field other than Business Administration are required to complete the Foundations of Business Courses (prerequisites). Evaluation of previous course work for waiver of these courses occurs upon admission to the program. Applicants must also demonstrate competence in mathematics and computer literacy. The GMAT exam is required for all applicants.

Program Overview

Foundations (prerequisites):0-16 units

Required Core 24 units

Special Topics 9 units

TOTAL 33-49 units

Foundations (prerequisites):16 units

BUS 500Economics for Managers3 units

BUS 502Quantitative Methods for Decision-Making3 units

BUS 504Introduction to Accounting and Finance4 units

BUS 506Principles of Management and Marketing3 units

BUS 508Business Law3 units

Required Core:24 units

BUS 510High Performance Management3 units

BUS 520Strategy and Leadership3 units

BUS 530Managing Business Operations3 units

BUS 540Financial Reporting and Analysis3 units

BUS 550The Contemporary Firm3 units

BUS 560The Entrepreneurial Manager3 units

BUS 570Competing in a Global Environment6 units

*Special Topics9 units

or  

*Special Topics 6 units

BUS 572International Experience (Study Abroad)3 units

*Special Topics areas; social business, management, economics, resource management, strategy, entrepreneurial management, management information systems, and business operations. International topics are woven throughout the MBA curriculum; however the third special topics course is intended to specifically address international business. Alternately, students may elect to enroll in a 10 day International Experience. Study abroad features lectures by professors of foreign universities, tours of businesses in various sectors of the foreign country, and an exploration of history and culture through sight-seeing.

International Graduate Admission Requirements

International (F-1) students may be accepted if they fulfill the following requirements:

Have earned a degree or diploma that CI considers to be the equivalent to a 4-year U.S. bachelor's degree from an accredited institution

If educated in the U.S., have attained a minimum GPA of 2.7 (A = 4.0) or more in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted. If educated in a non-U.S. university, have acceptable academic performance as determined by the Graduate Admissions Office. Certain programs have stricter requirements regarding academic preparation (please see program websites below for specific GPA requirements).

An official TOEFL score report with a minimum score of 550 paper, 213 computer, 80 iBT (Internet-Based Test) or an overall IELTS band score of 6.5 except where English is the official language of the country. Certain programs may require a higher TOEFL/IELTS score.

All Graduate programs require the GRE or GMAT. (please see program websites below for details)

The financing options for the MBA program at California State University offer a comprehensive range of opportunities to support students financially throughout their studies. Students can initially explore federal and state financial aid options, including federal student loans such as Direct Unsubsidized Loans, which are available to graduate students pursuing a master’s degree. CSU also participates in the Federal Grad PLUS Loan program, providing additional borrowing capacity for qualified students to cover tuition and living expenses. The university's financial aid office assists students in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for these programs.

In addition to federal aid, students are encouraged to consider state-specific financial support. California residents may qualify for Cal Grants and other state-funded scholarships, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. Work-study opportunities may also be available, allowing students to earn money through part-time employment within the university or related organizations, thus helping to offset costs.

For those seeking alternative financing methods, California State University offers payment plan options that allow students to break their tuition payments into manageable installments over the semester or academic year. Many students also pursue private education loans through banks and financial institutions, often requiring credit approval. These loans typically have differing interest rates and repayment terms, so it is essential for students to compare options carefully.

Additionally, the university collaborates with various private scholarship foundations and industry partners to provide merit-based and need-based scholarships specific to MBA students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need and can substantially reduce overall expenses.

Many students finance their studies through a combination of these sources, leveraging federal aid, state programs, institutional support, private scholarships, and personal savings. The university's career services also assist students in exploring internship opportunities and employer sponsorships that can provide further financial support or tuition reimbursement.

Overall, while the exact amount of financing available can vary based on individual circumstances, California State University offers a robust framework of financial support designed to make earning an MBA accessible and manageable for a diverse student population. It is recommended that prospective students contact the university’s financial aid office early in the application process to explore all available options and develop a tailored financial plan suited to their needs.

The California State University offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various business sectors. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines fundamental business principles with specialized areas of study, including finance, marketing, management, and operations. Students have the opportunity to develop critical thinking, strategic decision-making, and analytical skills necessary for effective management. The program typically emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, group projects, and internships, which allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Faculty members are experienced professionals and academics who bring practical insights into their teaching, fostering an engaging and dynamic learning environment.

The MBA program at CSU campuses often offers flexibility to accommodate working professionals, including evening and weekend classes, online coursework, and part-time options. This flexibility aims to attract students from diverse backgrounds seeking to advance their careers without interrupting their current employment. The program may also feature concentrations or specializations in areas such as entrepreneurship, healthcare management, or public administration, depending on the campus. Admission requirements generally include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a competitive GMAT or GRE score, work experience, and a statement of purpose.

Students enrolled in the MBA program at CSU benefit from a strong network of alumni and industry connections facilitated through career services and employer partnerships. The program aims to develop not only technical business skills but also leadership abilities, ethical judgment, and a global perspective. Upon graduation, students are prepared to take on managerial roles, start their own businesses, or pursue further academic opportunities. The CSU’s commitment to affordability and quality education makes the MBA program an excellent choice for aspiring business professionals seeking a reputable and flexible graduate degree.